Los Angeles blackened death metal band Pessimist made their first appearance at the 70000 Tons of Metal cruise in 2025, delivering a powerful set that energized attendees. The performance highlighted the band's classic material during a busy day on the voyage. Recent updates signal exciting developments for the group heading into 2026.
The 70000 Tons of Metal cruise, known as the world's biggest heavy metal floating festival, took place from January 30 to February 3, 2025, sailing from Miami, Florida, to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, aboard the Independence of the Seas. Pessimist, hailing from Los Angeles, California, marked their debut at the event with two scheduled sets: one on January 31 at 7:15 p.m. in the Studio B Ice Rink, and another on February 1 at 2:15 a.m. in the Star Lounge. Attendees, including reviewer Zenae Zukowski, caught the first performance, describing it as a "crushing set of classic material" that provided a "refreshing surge of energy" and a sense of comfort through its aggressive sound during the trip's second day, one of the busiest.
Formed as black/death metal veterans, Pessimist's last full album was Slaughtering the Faithful in 2002, followed by the single "Keys to the Underworld" in 2018. That year, the band was actively working on a long-awaited new record. An update emerged on Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving in 2025—confirming that mixing is complete and the album will be handed to Season of Mist for release. If plans proceed, this could result in a new full-length in 2026.
Building momentum, Pessimist wrapped up a European tour to close out 2025 and has started booking 2026 dates, including a slot at Canada's Piranha Pit Fest. This activity underscores the band's ongoing vitality as they enter the new year. The spotlight on Pessimist aligns with the cruise's tradition of treating each performer as a headliner, offering in-depth coverage of their contributions and recent endeavors.
Looking ahead, the 2026 edition of 70000 Tons of Metal is set for January 29 to February 2, departing from Miami to Nassau, The Bahamas, on the Freedom of the Seas, with a lineup featuring acts like Amorphis, Anthrax, and Paradise Lost.